Clear Diamonds, Diamonds, and Salt and Pepper Diamonds: What to Choose and Why?

Paulina & Natalia Michalak
2025-08-28T14:03:36+02:00

Do you know the difference between a salt-and-pepper diamond and a classic brilliant? Discover the fascinating world of diamonds, which are gaining popularity thanks to their unique, rustic appearance. Learn why they are an ideal alternative to traditional diamonds and how their natural inclusions create one-of-a-kind designs. Choose the diamond that best reflects your style!

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Salt and Pepper Diamonds vs. Diamonds: Know the Differences

Diamond Comparison: From Luxurious Classics to Natural Uniqueness

In the jewelry world, diamonds have always been a symbol of luxury and elegance. However, with the increasing presence of lab-grown diamonds in the market, the prestige of natural diamonds is diminishing, and diamonds are generally becoming more accessible to everyone. However, not all diamonds are created equal. In recent years, "salt and pepper" diamonds have gained popularity, perfectly reflecting the trend of returning to the natural and unique. Let's examine the differences between pure diamonds, also known as "brilliant" diamonds, and "salt and pepper" diamonds.

What is a pure diamond (brilliant)?

A brilliant is a high-quality diamond with minimal inclusions (internal imperfections), pure color (close to white/colorless), and cut so that the facets on the surface reflect as much light as possible (known as a brilliant cut). The purest diamonds are rare and valuable, which significantly increases their price. Their high clarity allows these diamonds to reflect light in an incredible way, creating spectacular reflections.

What is a "salt and pepper" diamond?

A salt and pepper diamond is a diamond that contains numerous inclusions, giving it a unique appearance. The name "salt and pepper" comes from the characteristic appearance of such a diamond, which contains black, gray, and white inclusions. These inclusions can create a variety of patterns and structures within the stone, making each salt and pepper diamond unique. A salt and pepper diamond can also be cut in a brilliant cut to reflect as much light as possible, but it is no longer called a brilliant. This designation is reserved for only the purest stones.

Origin and process of creation

Natural diamonds are formed deep in the earth, where carbon is subjected to high pressure and temperatures for millions of years. This process creates crystalline structures that are then mined, cut, and polished.

Lab-grown diamonds are formed naturally in laboratory conditions. They are bombarded with high pressure and temperature, crystallizing over several days to several weeks.

Salt and pepper diamonds are naturally formed. Their unique inclusions are the result of various impurities and minerals present in the crystallization environment. These inclusions may be caused by graphite, magnetite, hematite, or other minerals.

Differences between pure diamonds (brilliant) and salt and pepper diamonds

Appearance : Diamonds are clear, colorless, and brilliant, while salt and pepper diamonds have distinctive gray inclusions that give them a unique, rustic appearance.

Price : Diamonds are typically more expensive due to their rarity and perfection. Lab-grown diamonds are significantly cheaper, although they have the same visual characteristics. Salt and pepper diamonds are as affordable as lab-grown diamonds, but they are natural stones, making them an attractive alternative for those seeking something unique and original, completely natural.

Style : Diamonds are classic and timeless, perfect for elegant occasions. Salt and Pepper diamonds are more modern and artistic, perfect for those seeking unusual jewelry.

Which diamond should you choose?

Choosing between a diamond and a salt and pepper diamond depends on personal preference, style, and budget. If you value classic elegance and brilliance, a diamond is an excellent choice. However, if you're looking for something unique and artistic, a salt and pepper diamond may be the perfect solution. Regardless of your choice, each diamond has its own unique history and beauty. Natural and lab-grown diamonds, as well as salt and pepper diamonds, offer different aesthetics and values ​​that can reflect your personality and style. When choosing a diamond, you're choosing more than just a stone—you're choosing a symbol of durability, love, and individuality.